The urge to shop is as old as civilization itself — but how did we go from makeshift markets in dusty town squares to grand indoor spaces brimming with color, chatter, and commerce? What secrets lie behind the arches of ancient bazaars and the glass-roofed arcades of European capitals? Get ready to journey through centuries of architectural innovation that transformed the simple act of buying into an immersive, global experience.
Join New York Adventure Club for a three-part series exploring the evolution of shopping spaces around the world, and how architecture, culture, and commerce came together to shape modern retail as we know it. In Part Three: Malls of Modernity, we'll trace how technological innovation and suburban expansion led to a bold new era of retail — one defined by convenience, car culture, and colossal shopping centers.
Led by architectural historian David V. Griffin of Landmark Branding, this digital showcase featuring a selection of unique structures will include:
- Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, the first automotive-oriented shopping center
- The development of the Miracle Mile in Los Angeles, a prototype for suburban commercial strips
- The Expressionist department stores of Germany, and their influence on postwar mall architecture
- The rise of the suburban branch store, reshaping retail access and consumer behavior
- The decline of urban department stores, and the modern resurgence of local boutiques and farmers’ markets
Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with David — any and all questions about these unique buildings are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay through one week after the entire series concludes!
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week after the series finale
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week since the series finale, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
Architecture of Global Marketplaces Series
Part 1: Temples of Trade (Wednesday, June 4)
Part 2: Palaces of Plenty (Wednesday, June 11)
Part 3: Malls of Modernity (Wednesday, June 18)
About David Griffin
A seasoned public speaker and tireless professional strategist, Griffin’s nearly 25 years’ experience in publicity, programming, writing and research is matched by his encyclopedic knowledge of real estate, architecture and design. His clients include developers, brokers and marketing companies as well as architects and design firms.
Griffin is Special Consultant to and a regularly appearing featured guest on the soon-to-be relaunched podcast Rediscovering New York, hosted by Jeff Goodman of Brown Stevens Harris; Griffin’s writing has appeared in Real Estate Weekly, Metropolis, Dwell and the National Trust’s Preservation Magazine and he is a featured contributor to Brownstoner. He is currently at work on several fiction and non-fiction projects.
Griffin graduated from Vassar College with a double major in English & Art History and has recently celebrated his 25th anniversary as the President Emeritus of the Vassar College Croquet Club. He has also served on the Events Committees for the Vassar Club of New York, the historic Montauk Club in Park Slope and the Young Patrons of The American Friends of the Louvre.
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Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment
